An air cooler is a necessity in Indian homes during summer. Not only is it affordable, it is also convenient to operate and is also environment friendly. All you need is water to run it. However, with so many brands operating in the air cooler market, it is important to consider a few things before purchasing an air cooler for your home. Here are a few tips to help you make the right decision:
- Type of cooler: Most air coolers are fixed outside the house due to space constraints inside. Such units are usually bulkier in size and hence hence are good outdoors. However, nowadays, you can also find portable coolers. These are suitable for those who live on rent or would want to move the cooler from one room to another. Unlike an AC which requires a lengthy installation process and cannot be unmounted easily, air coolers are comparatively easier to operate.
- Energy consumption: An air cooler consumes less power as compared to an AC. The former does not impact your electricity bill much while the latter can lead to huge power bills. However, a bigger size air cooler might have a higher power usage as compared to a smaller unit. So check the amount of energy that is consumed by different cooler brands before you make a final decision.
- Inverter compatibility: A power cut can interrupt cooling during a hot summer night when you might need an air cooler the most. Therefore, a unit which can run on the battery power of an inverter makes for a good choice. An air cooler that is compatible with an inverter can help you get uninterrupted comfort even when the electricity is not there.
- Maintenance: Just like any other electrical appliance such as an air conditioner, air coolers also require regular maintenance to ensure optimum performance. Ensure to check on a few features that can enhance the operation of your air cooler. One such feature is a 100% copper motor. Copper is resistant to corrosion, provides faster cooling and is easy to maintain. Cooling pads with a honeycomb design also ensure efficient cooling as compared to cooling pads available locally.
- Climate: Do you live in a place with hot and humid weather such as a coastal area? Air coolers might not be effective at providing cooling in areas with such a climate. An air cooler cools the surrounding air by releasing moisture and since there is already moisture in the air in humid condition, the air cannot take extra water. An AC would be a good alternative for those living in such a place.
- Budget: Coolers are easy on the pocket and will cost you less as compared to an AC. The operating cost of running an air cooler is also low, so you can save more on your electricity bill as well. So all in all they are a budget buy.
Apart from the factors mentioned above, you can also look at additional features such as ice tray. This is especially important during the hot summers when temperatures touch 45 degree Celsius.
An air cooler with an ice tray helps provide faster and more effective cooling and comfort as well. So, remember to keep the above pointers in mind when you select a cooler for your home.